Engaging in independent living activities can give you a sense of belonging and purpose within your Woodlands community. These activities can include exercising, enjoying meals with friends, and engaging in hobbies.
According to a new American Psychiatric Association (APA) Healthy Minds Monthly Poll, 30% of adults say they've experienced feelings of loneliness at least once a week over the past year. Another 10% say they feel lonely every day.
Of those polled, 53% feel the highest sense of community and belonging among friends. Engaging in independent living activities in Woodlands, TX, can grant you that sense of belonging.
Who is at risk of loneliness, and how can active retirement living benefit your health? Read on to find out!
According to the CDC, one in four American adults doesn't have social or emotional support. These people are at risk of social isolation and loneliness.
Individual risk factors of loneliness and isolation can include conditions and experiences, such as:
Loneliness can have a bigger impact on certain groups, including older adults and people who live alone. If you're at risk, consider moving into a senior living community. Active retirement living can reduce your risk of loneliness, social isolation, and resulting health effects.
Loneliness and social isolation pose health risks for seniors, including an increased risk of:
Meanwhile, engaging in meaningful and productive senior wellness activities may extend your longevity. This enrichment for older adults can improve your mood while enhancing your sense of purpose in life.Here are a few ways independent living activities can improve your health.
According to the National Institute on Aging, loneliness can increase your risk for:
Adding engagement to your independent lifestyle may reduce your risk of cognitive decline. For example, your friends can teach you new skills. Continuous learning helps your mind form new neural pathways, which can improve neuroplasticity and mental acuity.
Explore your senior living community's memory program for:
These activities can help stimulate your mind. They may help improve your memory and slow cognitive decline.
Regular exercise can benefit your mental, emotional, and physical well-being by:
Your friends can hold you accountable to attend fitness classes regularly. You can find classes through your senior living community's fitness program.
Depression affects over 21 million (8%) US adults each year. Social isolation and aging can increase your risk. Common symptoms of depression include:
These symptoms can affect your quality of life. Having meaningful relationships can improve your mood and reduce your risk of depression.
Consult a mental healthcare professional if these symptoms persist beyond two weeks. They can offer personalized treatment plans based on your needs.
Senior programs in The Woodlands may improve your emotional, mental, and physical well-being. Try exploring these programs through the Conservatory at Alden Bridge.
Your senior living community's fitness program may offer:
Ask friends to join you. They can challenge and motivate you through intense workouts. Exercising together can boost the production of chemicals that improve your mood.
Ask friends to join you for meals through your community's dining programs. Eating healthy, nutritious meals can benefit your health and mood.
Check your community's events and activities calendar for:
These activities can stimulate your mind and add enjoyment to your life.
Seniors should socialize daily to experience benefits. Socializing daily can improve your overall well-being, potentially extending your longevity.
To socialize daily, try:
You can find more senior wellness activities to make new friends through your senior living community.
Many seniors self-isolate after losing loved ones. This self-isolation can compromise your health and well-being.
If you recently lost a loved one, consider moving into a senior living community or joining a support group. Other support group members can offer coping techniques. They can help you navigate your grief.
Reach out for help if you:
Engaging in independent living activities can improve your overall health and well-being. You can find opportunities to socialize through your senior living community.
Conservatory at Alden Bridge offers six exclusive lifestyle programs to improve your health and quality of life. Enjoy delicious meals through Sensations Dining, fun activities like bingo through Celebrations, and yoga classes through Dimensions Health & Fitness. Contact us now to schedule your tour.